Graphite — Graph ite, n. [Gr. gra fein to write: cf. F. graphite. See {Graphic}.] (Min.) Native carbon in hexagonal crystals, also foliated or granular massive, of black color and metallic luster, and so soft as to leave a trace on paper. It is used for… … The Collaborative International Dictionary of English

graphite — ► NOUN ▪ a grey form of carbon used as a solid lubricant and as pencil lead. DERIVATIVES graphitic adjective. ORIGIN from Greek graphein write (because of its use in pencils) … English terms dictionary

graphite — [graf′īt΄] n. [Ger graphit &LT; Gr graphein, to write (see GRAPHIC): from its use as writing material] a very soft, black, hexagonal mineral of pure carbon, formed in thin plates and found in metamorphic rocks: used in making electrodes, paints,… … English World dictionary